WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- Health officials are urging more screenings for Hepatitis C as major cities like the District of Columbia have higher hepatitis rates than the rest of the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all baby boomers get tested for the virus that attack the liver over time. MedStar Washington Hospital Center is now offering free testing for all general care patients. Up to 75 percent of people with Hepatitis don't know that they are infected.

Dr. Dawn Fishbein of MedStar Washington Hospital Center says, "We even call it a silent epidemic, with other viruses you have symptoms like fever and chills but with hepatitis you may not always have symptoms."

Those coming into the General Medicine Clinic to see their primary care doctor can get tested for Hepatitis C. For more information call (202) 740-1333.